DRUG dealing and taking is rife at a hotspot in Deane, according to one concerned resident who witnesses it going on most days.

An area of land behind flats on Langthorne Walk including a car park has attracted groups of youths who meet up during the day and at night to take drugs.

Needles and laughing gas canisters have been dumped in the area, putting people’s health further at risk amid the pandemic.

The resident said: “Langthorne Walk is a haven for drug dealers.

“I have lived here for 12 years but when I finished work last year I have been able to see what is going on around me more.

“With Covid we are getting people who are losing their lives and these guys are still out selling drugs and meeting up.

“They just do not care, they think they can get away with anything.

“I do not feel safe in my own home.

“Only a couple of months ago I was walking on Langthorne Road and saw 19 needles which I reported to the council.

“There are posh cars that turn up and the drivers use the area as a racing track – it is wrong.

“There are five different exit routes around here so they can get away if they see a police car.”

It is also believed electric scooters are used by dealers and users.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has used “high visibility patrols” in efforts to deter drug dealers from operating in the area.

Sergeant Tracy Tant, of GMP’s Bolton Division, said: “We understand concerns residents may have over drug use within the area and would like to reiterate our commitment to cracking down on crime in the area.

“Nobody should have to put up with behaviour which has a negative impact on their environment and we remain committed to working together to keep our streets a safe for everyone.

“We have recently used high-visibility patrols aimed at tackling issues in the area including drug dealing and anti-social behaviour to send a clear message to those committing these offences.

“As our patrols and operations are based on the intelligence and information we receive, which allows us to consider potential risks and hotspot areas, we do need the continued support of the community in reporting incidents via the LiveChat facility on the GMP website or by calling 101.

“Always dial 999 in an emergency.”